Early Steel Pocket Watch Key
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c. 1770
This early steel pocket watch key is dated by the dealer to circa 1770 within the Georgian era. The tool features an octagonal-cornered rectangular steel body with bevelled edges, engraved on each face with an X motif composed of crossing parallel grooves.
At the top, a circular suspension ring attaches via a turned collar, while the base terminates in a turned steel winding pipe specified as size 1 to 2. The source records dimensions of 32 mm in width by 14 mm in depth, noting small pit marks on the steel surface.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Pocket watch key
- Period
- Georgian (1714 to 1837)
- Body form
- Rectangular body with beveled sides
- Decoration
- X engraved on each side
- Dimensions
- 32mm wide x 14mm deep
- Condition notes
- 90% mint condition with small pit marks
- Winding pipe size
- Size 1-2
Design
- Visible features
- • Engraved X pattern composed of multiple diagonal parallel grooves on the central plaque • Chamfered corners creating an elongated octagonal rectangular profile • Turned upper stem fitted with a round suspension ring • Turned tubular steel winding pipe at bottom showing small pit marks and light oxidation
- Functional Sizing and Dimensions
- The object is configured as a winding key for pocket watches. The seller states that the tool features a "steel winding pipe – a size 1-2", referring to standard numbered watch key pipe sizes. According to the listing, "The key measures 32mm wide x 14mm deep". In evaluating condition, the seller rates the piece as "in 90% mint condition – small pit marks".
- Dating and Documentary Limitations
- The listing categorizes the piece under "Period Georgian (1714 to 1837)" and assigns a date in the title of "c1770". However, no maker signatures, workshop marks, or assay hallmarks are recorded in the source text or visible on the tool. The approximate circa 1770 date and Georgian era designation represent dealer attributions by Atlam Watches rather than documented historical provenance. Additionally, the source description lists dimensions of 32 mm wide by 14 mm deep without clarifying whether 32 mm represents the overall length.
- Object Form and Surface Decoration
- This pocket watch key is made of steel, described by the source as having a "rectangular body with beveled sides". Directly observed, the chamfered corners give the central plaque an elongated octagonal profile. Each face of the central section is decorated with "a X engraved on each side", visible as crossing groups of parallel diagonal grooves. Attached at the upper end is a turned stem holding a circular suspension loop for carrying or attachment. The bottom transitions into a turned tubular winding pipe, which visibly exhibits small surface pits and areas of light oxidation.
Identification
- Reference
- 9.460 (AB-78593)
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Attribution to circa 1770 and the Georgian era relies entirely on dealer assessment
- Research required: No maker marks, initials, or assay hallmarks are visible or noted